Common atmospheric pollutants and their sources

Question 1

What is a major source of atmospheric pollutants

Answer 1

Combustion of fuels

Question 2

What does most fuels contain

Answer 2

Carbon and / or hydrogen and sometimes sulphur

Question 3

What are the gases released into the atmosphere when a fuel burns

Answer 3

• Carbon Dioxide
• Water Vapour
• Carbon Monoxide
• Oxides of Nitrogen

Question 4

How are particulates formed in the atmosphere?

Answer 4

Solid particles and unbounded hydrocarbons can also be released

Question 5

How is soot (carbon particles) produced from burning fuels.

Answer 5

Incomplete combustion of fuels

Question 6

What happens during combustion

Answer 6

The carbon and hydrogen in the fuels are oxidised to form carbon dioxide and water

Question 7

Define Carbon monoxide

Answer 7

A colourless, odourless, and poisonous gas (not easy to detect)

Question 8

Sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen cause …

Answer 8

Respiratory problems in humans and acid rain which affects the environment

Question 9

Define Particulates

Answer 9

Cause global dimming and human health problems